Johnny "JR" Ray Begley

Johnny Ray "JR" Begley, age 45 of LaFollette, Tennessee, passed away unexpectedly on Friday November 14, 2025 at his residence.  

JR was born on August 2, 1980 to Gilford and Mary (Goble) Begley in Defiance, Ohio. He earned an Associate Degree at Findlay College and worked at various factories. JR also obtained his Bachelor of Arts Degree and was an Ordained Minister. He had a special talent for fixing computers and was a giving individual to those less fortunate. He will always be remembered for his kind heart and loving spirit. JR has finally found peace in a challenging world. He enjoyed cheering for the Michigan Football team, and his love and devotion to his K9 four-legged companion named "Lou-Dog" was his favorite past time.    

Johnny is survived by his mother, Mary (Charles) Murray, brothers Richard (Cheri) Thomas and David (Ashley) Thomas, and sister Anita Thomas, all of Defiance. He also leaves behind his nieces and nephews, Cody Thomas, Kirk (Nisa) Thomas, Angelina (Caleb) Nichols, Bradley Thomas and Liam Thomas. His friends are too numerous to mention. 

He was preceded in death by his father, Gilford Begley (2024).

Visitation will be held on Monday, November 24, 2025 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home South, Lawson-Roessner Chapel (1753 S. Clinton Street) in Defiance. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 pm at the funeral home with Pastor Tim Tracy officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be directed to the family, in care of Mary Murray.

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